All posts in Life

If you’re trying to shore up your budget, it’s a good idea to reevaluate every line item. While things like groceries are, of course, necessary, there are always ways that you can reduce the amount you spend at the store. The same is true for utilities like gas and electricity. Read on if you’re looking for some simple ways to save on energy bills.

Buy energy-efficient light bulbs.

One of the most common components of any list of suggestions for how to save on your electric bill is to buy better lightbulbs. Using LED or energy-efficient light bulbs is a surefire way to reduce the amount of energy your bulbs consume each day. Best of all, some LED lightbulbs are designed to last for years, making it easier to save by decreasing the number of times you wind up buying bulbs.

Turn off your lights.

Another easy way to reduce your energy consumption is to turn off the lights when you don’t need them on. If you’ve just left a room, such as a bathroom or your kitchen, make sure to flip the lights off when you leave. You may also want to orient different aspects of your home around windows so that you can make the most of natural light.

Get better windows.

Heating and cooling during the summer and winter are huge culprits when it comes to energy spikes. If you feel like you’re constantly turning the air up in the summer or the heat up in the winter, it may be worth investing in new windows. If your windows are certified energy-efficient and create a better seal, your home will be better insulated, saving you money.

Keep an eye on your thermostat.

Going along with the previous suggestion, it’s a good idea to stay conscious of the temperature you keep your home at. Even adjusting the thermostat down a degree or two in the winter and putting on a pair of socks or a sweater can be effective when it comes to reducing how much money your energy plan charges you. Installing a smart thermostat is another way to help reduce your energy consumption without having to think twice about it.

Use a microwave when possible.

Do you own a microwave? Did you know that if you do, meals that can be prepared in the microwave instead of in an electric oven or stovetop can help you save money, too? Microwaves use a lot less electricity than other, bigger appliances, so when it comes to heating up that soup, maybe you should use the microwave instead of an electric burner.

Insulate your home.

Insulating your home goes beyond getting better windows. Having the proper kinds of insulation in your attic and walls can make a huge difference when it comes to getting a better deal. Especially if you have a higher rate due in the hot summer months and cold winters, it can be a great idea to have your insulation checked. If there are any leaks, or the material is subpar, it may be contributing to the need for your HVAC to work overtime.

Find a new energy provider.

Sometimes, even with the above tips and tricks in mind, you may find that your monthly bill is still a little high. If you’ve determined that your usage level is under control, looking into other energy companies could be the secret to finding a lower rate. Even with an early termination fee, it may be worth switching providers if it means you’ll be saving money by getting the cheapest electricity in any given month. Find cheap electricity plans with iSelect and start comparing your options to see if a new provider could help you save money by changing your rate plan.

Many American students are struggling with student loan debt. Some have switched to an income-driven repayment plan in order to reduce their monthly payment. Others are forced to pause making payments. If you are one of these struggling students, there may be another option. Working with a bankruptcy attorney may allow you to shed off your loan obligations.

How can an attorney help with student loan debts?

A student loan attorney has advanced knowledge regarding all aspects of student loans and will help you deal with complex situations. A student loan attorney will guide you 

• When you are facing a dispute with a loan service
• When the loan issued is fraudulent
• When a debt collection agency is harassing you
• When you have been sued in court 
• When you are on the verge of bankruptcy

Hiring the services of an attorney when you aren’t aware of your legal options is enormously helpful. Only an attorney will be able to shed light on which solution will work best for your particular situation. In certain cases you may be able to discharge student loans in bankruptcy.

How do I confirm the proficiency of an attorney?

Look for lawyers who are listed in the National Association of Bankruptcy Attorneys. You can also check the American Bar Association. Check if the lawyer:

• Specializes in student loans: Rather than opting for a general practitioner, hire the services of an attorney who specializes in debt relief law as he/she will be more aware of the nuances involved and have experience in handling student loan cases. Even those who specialize in consumer loan debt may not be able to provide good relief options.
• Has experience solving your specific situation: Every loan issue is different and requires different course of action. The lawyer you select must have experience handling similar cases like yours. You can ask them how they dealt with a similar case and what outcome to expect in your case.

How to find affordable lawyers?

After you have shortlisted a few attorneys, inquire about their fee structure. Try to find an attorney who charges flat rates, as hourly rates tend to spiral out of control very quickly. Flat rates are preferable for services like document preparation, reviewing the case, resolving a student loan default, negotiating pre-trial settlement and for pretrial work.

The legal fees may range anywhere from $500 to $1000. Though it may sound like a lot, getting a lawyer to handle your student loan issues is worth it. The right advice can help you save thousands.  You’ll also be at peace when you have legal assistance.

Before taking legal action, try to resolve the issue with your loan servicer and discuss repayment alternatives. If you aren’t able to reach an agreement, legal help will prove beneficial.

When you’re showing your rental apartments to prospective tenants, you’re presenting them with a picture of their future home. Although renting an apartment means freedom and flexibility, it’s still a big commitment and your potential renter will want to feel at home. That’s why you should prepare the apartment and give it a homey vibe before each visit.

To make the best first impression, make sure you cover all of the main aspects and show a clean, functional, comfortable, and beautiful apartment the renters will love. In particular, here’s what you should focus on:

Cleaning

After your previous tenant has vacated the unit, bring in a cleaning crew to deep clean the apartment. They should be able to remove any stains and odors and freshen up the apartment, in general. If there are more serious issues—such as holes in the walls or other damage—make sure to repair them before showing the apartment to the next prospect. 

Furthermore, if you want to give the rental that new apartment feel, focus on cleaning areas such as windows, corners of rooms and appliances. The kitchen and the bathroom should be spotless, and by polishing the appliances and fixtures, these rooms will shine. 

Functionality

It’s difficult to know what kind of lifestyle your prospective tenant has and whether the apartment you are showing will suit it. Therefore, emphasize the functionality of the apartment by making sure the appliances, plumbing, lights, windows, and locks are all working properly. If there are any problems, call a specialist to fix them before the showing.

Once those are taken care of, check all potential safety and security concerns, from smoke detectors to wiring and outlets. Also, ensure that there aren’t any faulty or quirky appliances in the apartment, either. For instance, if the microwave only works half the time and the fridge doesn’t always close all the way, replace them with fully functional units. 

Comfort

Comfort is often difficult to mimic in an uninhabited apartment. However, it’s important to present the rental in its best condition, which means it should be full of light and set to the right temperature, as well as have a pleasant smell. The time of day and/or year may also influence how you show the apartment; for example, you might rely more on natural light during summer by leaving the windows uncovered as opposed to turning on artificial lights in the winter. 

The same goes for temperature, which you should adjust accordingly for a pleasant transition. In the summer, you can even leave the windows open prior to the showing to fill the apartment with fresh air. Conversely, during the winter, brew some hot cinnamon water or hot chocolate to fill the space with a pleasant, homey fragrance. 

Aesthetics

This area is very much dependent on whether you’re renting a furnished or unfurnished unit. If the apartment is empty, it might be easier for the tenant to picture bringing their own furniture and styling it according to their personal preferences. However, others may find it easier to imagine living in the apartment if it’s furnished. Either way, consider staging some areas—even with rented furniture—to give them an idea of how the apartment might look with their belongings. 

Additionally, select versatile colors for the unit’s walls and curtains so they will easily integrate with whatever color scheme the tenant chooses. But, don’t add any decorations that are too specific or personal. The entire apartment is the star of the show; the rest of the items are simply there to make it shine. 

Lastly, make sure you know that particular unit and its selling points. Then, highlight the practical amenities that are sure to convince the renter—such as walk-in closets, in-unit laundry, or storage space. Essentially, paint a picture of what it would be like for them to live there by exploring the views from the apartment, showcasing each room, and discussing the neighborhood and what they can do there. You can even ask the prospective tenants what they’re looking for and find a solution inside the apartment.

Each tenant is looking for something different, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare for most situations. Cover as much as possible, highlight all of the apartment’s best aspects and renters are sure to fall in love with the space. 

About the author: Mihaela Buzec is a passionate reader and writer with an affinity for language and linguistics, as well as the latest technological developments. She discovered her passion for real estate at RENTCafé, and you can read more of her articles on their blog.

When we think of Italian dishes, shrimp parm is one that stands out. The ooey, gooey cheese, the rich sauce and the light, fresh taste of shrimp comes together to make a mouth-watering combination. If you’d like to learn how to make shrimp parm, read on!

Why Love Shrimp Parm?

Shrimp parm contains shrimp, which is notoriously healthy. It’s low in calories and fat and high in protein and essential fatty acids. It is also rich in astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid that gives shrimp their pink color. It is packed with antioxidants and may support health aging, especially in the heart and muscles. It can also protect the body from toxins and stressors.

If you would like to make a delicious and healthy shrimp parm dish, here is a recipe we recommend.

Shrimp Parm Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs. extra-large shrimp peeled and butterflied
• ½ cup flour
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• ¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• Olive oil to protect bottom of pan while frying
• 1 lb grated mozzarella cheese
• 3 ½ cups tomato sauce
• 1 lb pasta
• Olive oil drizzle throughout pasta
• Parmesan cheese

Directions:

• Open the shrimp up like a book and remove the dark vein.
• In a zip lock bag, place flour seasoned with salt and Old Bay. Toss in shrimp and shake to coat.
• Remove shrimp; add panko, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese to the same bag.
• In a small bowl whisk eggs and mayonnaise.
• Dip floured shrimp into egg mixture and then into bread crumbs.
• Heat oil in a large heavy bottom pan.
•  Brown shrimp in batches and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
• Spread 1/3 of the sauce on the bottom of the pan.
• Spread cooked pasta on top of sauce.
• Spoon another 1/3 sauce on pasta.
• Layer shrimp over the pasta
• Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
• Top with the rest of the sauce.
• Top with grated parmesan cheese.
• Bake in 350-degree oven till cheese is melted, about 15-20 minutes.

Of course, not everyone has the time to cook a shrimp parm dish. Fortunately for them, there are other ways to enjoy the benefits astaxanthin has to offer. The easiest way to take it is in supplemental form.

Don’t Like Seafood But Want Nutrition? Try These Healthy Supplements!

There are plenty of health care companies that carry astaxanthin supplements, but here are two we recommend.

Pure Encapsulations: Pure Encapsulations carries a wide range of products that are vegetarian, hypoallergenic, and all natural. Every ingredient they use gets tested for purity and potency. Their astaxanthin supplements are just one of the many they provide to ensure optimal health.

Solgar: With close to 75 years in the healthcare industry, Solgar has built a reputation for themselves as a leading provider of natural supplements. They are known for providing top quality, science-based products. Their product line includes astaxanthin supplements which are available in different strengths.

Eating shrimp parm is a delicious way to take advantage of the benefits astaxanthin has to offer, but those who would rather not spend a lot of time in the kitchen can still experience optimal health by taking this carotenoid in supplemental form. Cook or dose? Which one is right for you?

Ugh, acne! It can really work to reduce your self confidence and no matter how many times your friends and family tell you it’s not that bad, when you have a pimple, you feel like it’s the focal point of your entire face.

One common acne problem is blackheads near lips. Blackheads are tiny bumps on the skin that form when oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells clog pores. The pores stay open, so the substances are exposed to air. This causes them to darken and appear as small black dots.

Blackheads usually appear on the face and forehead, but they can also develop on the back, neck, shoulders, chest, and around the lip area. Fortunately, there are natural treatments available that can minimize and even eliminate blackheads.

Read on to find out more about how to treat blackheads near lips and other parts of the face and body.

6 Ways to Treat Blackheads Near Lips

Acne Essentials: Terry Naturally is a company that is known for the innovative, natural supplements and health products they provide. Their Acne Essentials capsules are dietary supplements that contain vitamins and herbal ingredients designed to reduce breakouts. Rich in antioxidants, they fight the toxins and stress that can contribute to the appearance of acne.

Acne Spot Treatment: The Derma E company produces products rich in vitamin E and other essentials that can get skin looking its best. Their Acne Spot Treatment cream utilizes a blend of all-natural ingredients including tea tree, willow bark, rosewood, lavender and chamomile. These work together to minimize redness and irritation and prevent blemishes and breakouts.   

Witch Hazel: Witch hazel can be used to minimize oil in skin and keep pores from becoming clogged. It contains plant compounds called tannins which have astringent properties that can reduce oil in skin. To use it, simply apply the liquid to a cotton ball and apply it to affected areas.

Honey: Honey is an antibiotic that can fight bacteria that clogs pores. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness. Honey can be used as a mask. Apply it to your face and leave on for 10 to 15 minutes. Then rinse off with lukewarm water.

Tea Tree Oil: This powerful antimicrobial can kill the bacteria that causes blackheads. It is very powerful, but it is also quite potent so it’s a good idea to dilute it before using it. It can be combined with a carrier oil like grapeseed oil and then applied directly to the skin.

Lip Balm: Lip balm that contains ingredients like honey or tea tree oil can be effective at treating blackheads near lips. Be sure the product you are buying is marked “acne safe” so it doesn’t worsen acne or cause irritation.

If you are bummed out about blackheads near lips, these all-natural products can help clear up your skin to get you feeling more attractive and more confident. What products do you use to keep your skin looking its best? 

Worn like a small piece of jewelry, custom lapel pins, also known as enamel pins, are typically adorned on a suit, dress, coat, or jacket and are a classy way to show off your personality. People wear them for a variety of reasons. Some like to show their love of country with a flag pin, others like to express support for a particular cause, and many simply like to collect them. No matter the reason, rest assured that there’s a pin out there for you. Or, you can custom design one to your liking.

Did you know that lapel pins date back to the 13th century? Using a specific metalworking technique called cloisonné; the precursor to the lapel pin was developed near the Byzantine Empire and was popularized during the Yuan Dynasty in China. This type of enamel technique has been refined since and is also used to produce other ornate pieces such as jewelry, fine art, housewares, and hairpins.

While lapel pins don’t have any actual purpose, many would argue that they make a political statement. Still, others would steadfastly contend the pins are all about fashion flare. 

For hundreds of years, lapel pins or brooches have been used to show affiliation to a specific sector of society. In contemporary times, for many companies, large and small, lapel pins have become an integral element of corporate identity. Often times, the design of their lapel pin is the corporate logo or simply the name of the company. 

Businesses also use lapel pins to recognize and reward employees who achieve certain milestones or accomplishments within the organization. They can also make corporate events more memorable for those win pins during competitions.

As a gift, lapel pins are lasting and demonstrate a real sense of thoughtfulness when customized.

Perhaps the single greatest influence on the popularization of lapel pins is the military. The connection between pins and the armed forces dates back to the Legion of the Roman ear when their state-sponsored army could not distinguish the enemy from their allies on the battlefield. The solution came in the form of a custom badge, or pin, for each legion. 

In the medieval period, aristocrats and knights of various levels designed complex custom badges (or pins) and displayed them on their shields as a means of identification. The composition of such badges generally has a specific format, including the symbol, the owner of the badge, history, mascots, auspicious colors, and maxims.

Like many products over the past 20 years, nearly all manufacturing of lapel pins takes place in China. 

The design of each pin starts off very much like animation in that they are all hand-drawn with a blue line. From there, the drawing will be either digitized or finished on a light-box to capture all the intricate details of the design. Once approved, the design is inked, colored, and transferred onto a mechanical sheet. The sheet serves as a blueprint that identifies the measurements and call-outs for manufacturing the parts.

Whether you’re designing a custom pin for personal or professional purposes or collecting custom pins you like, lapel pins are globally popular and there’s a vast assortment to choose from–so here are some tips. When designing your own custom pin, get as much information as possible about your pin’s audience and how your design can best engage their needs or interests. Also, whether you’re working with a single color or a full pallet of shades, color choice is one of the most important parts of pin design. Remember, custom pins can be a compelling visual medium and your color choice helps to immediately communicate ideas and release emotions tied to your overall design.

While lapel pins have been used historically for many purposes, today they’re largely used as a fashion accessory. From floral lapel pins that mimic a boutonniere to badge pins that show affiliation (e.g. country flag) to collar pins, lapel pins come in all shapes, sizes, and forms.

CBD oil is becoming an indispensable product in every household today. If you are reading this, then you are probably wondering more about the benefits and how CBD oil works (read more about that on Forbes). It’s no secret that the cannabis industry is at its peak today, with more and more research changing people’s perceptions about cannabis.

On the other hand, most people who have not experienced cannabis have a certain fear of being consumed, and being uninformed only takes it to the next level. We’ll try to help you demystify all the myths you may have heard along with the helpful facts you need to know before using CBD products.

CBD As Auxiliary Substance In Health Treatments

Research has shown that CBD contains many antioxidant and neuroprotective substances that are essential for human health. CBD oil provides treatment for many diseases such as some cardiovascular diseases, liver disease and metabolic disorders, as well as many other diseases that cannot be officially treated medically.

Due to its health effects, CBD is very popular and used in some medical institutions worldwide because it acts as a potential cure for over 50 medical conditions.

Positive Properties

CBD oil relieves various medical problems without the effects of THC and does not cause addiction. It can be used by anyone who feels the need for it or simply thinks it will make their life easier.

We can see people’s experiences and confessions on numerous websites, but it is certain that CBD oil has a positive effect on many people around the world. According to recent research, high levels of CBD work great for conditions such as anxiety, stress, seizures, depression, psychosis, and spasms. Also, it is less known today that due to the antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of CBD, oil also helps with herpes.

Of course, we need to make a distinction between CBD oil and Hemp oil. Both have their benefits in the treatment of various health issues. You can find more details about their differences and application on the Daily CBD Mag, where you can go into more detail about the products you need in a particular health situation.

The Negative Sides

Research has not yet confirmed the negative side of CBD oil, and all possible side effects occur with products that are not available for sale. Although CBD does not cause psychoactive effects as is the case with THC, it does affect the body in other ways.

Patients using highly-concentrated CBD oils, or oils prescribed by a physician, have noted a decrease in other medicines, an effect on motor function and an increase in tremor in Parkinson’s disease.

In some cases, consumption can also cause a hangover, but it is important to note that none of these negative aspects of CBD use is common and occurs in extremely rare cases.

What To Know When Buying A CBD Product?

Today, the market is overloaded with CBD oil products. So we have to ask ourselves how to choose the best for us. It’s not always easy, but some criteria can help you make your choice more easily.

Keep in mind that not all CBD oils are of the same quality, so make sure you always get one from a trusted manufacturer. GiftWits is one of the sites where you can get more information about CBD-based products or manufacturers and be sure to find a quality product for yourself.

1.   Buy Products From Reliable Companies Only

Given that the CBD industry is still under-regulated in some countries, it is important to know that you are buying from reputable sources. It can seem difficult to say which companies are reliable unless we look at how professional their websites are. You can also look for product reviews.

Still, the best, most reliable way to check a company’s reliability is by looking for third-party reports. According to the Observer, reputable CBD manufacturers will test the series of their products to prove that the products are exactly as described. To ensure there is no bias, a third-party lab is used. Usually, laboratory reports will detail what cannabinoids are and in what amounts they are contained in a particular product.

It will also tell you if any chemicals like those from fertilizers can be found in the product. By checking the reports in the lab, you will know that you are buying from a reputable company.

2.   Extraction Methods

Another detail to pay attention to is how CBD was extracted from the hemp plant. There are many ways to get cannabinoids out of hemp, including olive oil! However, this generates extremely low returns and is not profitable for the companies.

As a result, most companies use other techniques such as dry ice or solvent. When solvents are used, it compromises product safety. Although most companies that use solvent extraction will take steps to eliminate as many harmful products as possible, it is not the safest method of extraction. Instead, opt for a company that uses CO2 extraction.

This method involves the use of carbon dioxide at a certain temperature and pressure so that it acts as a non-toxic solvent. It is a very efficient method, but it also ensures that the final product will be 100% safe.

3.   Opt For Broad-Spectrum Products

The effect of CBD is that it is best combined with the synergy of various cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids.

This led to the development of the concept of “entourage effect”. Although this term is widely accepted today, scientists have only recently endorsed it. When CBD comes in combination with a full or wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, a significant change occurs: the effect is achieved at low doses.

4.   Pay Attention To The Packaging

When it comes to packaging, this criteria is very important. Almost the same as extraction mode.

First of all, it is important to know that glass packaging will better preserve the composition of the oil.

Besides, the glass packing will not allow UV rays to penetrate inside the bottle, and thus not impair the quality of the product.

CBD Based Products

The main ingredient of most products is CBD oil, and the difference is in consumption and form. Different modes of consumption result in different effects on the person. For some methods, such as consuming CBD oil under the tongue, the effect is the fastest and most effective.

1.   CBD Oil / Tincture

The usual and also the simplest form of CBD consumption. It is taken orally, sublingually or across the skin.

2.   Capsules

They are used as a daily supplement to the nutrition and normal functioning of the central nervous system. They are taken orally before or after a meal.

3.   Vape Liquids

Today, it is possible to consummate CBD oil with an e-cigarette or vaporizer that heats the oil at low temperatures.

4.   Creams

They are very useful in skin diseases. These creams are based on CBD oil or isolates and are applied directly to the skin.

5.   Food Products

Foods that contain different cannabinoids. Most often they are based on CBD oil or isolates. They come in many forms, from chocolate to chips.